Today is a post I’ve been excited about sharing – what I’m packing for the hospital for baby #2!
It hasn’t been that long since I had baby #1 (two years!) so I remember what I wanted and needed during labor and postpartum. So many lists are very long so I want to walk a fine line between what I want or need and excess! Some things might seem silly but everything serves a purpose and I’ll try to explain it.
Last time we left after only one full night because we didn’t see the point in staying longer (and obviously everyone was ok with that!), and I’m hoping we do that this time as well. So here are the essentials I want for those 36ish hours we will be there.
I’m going to be using my LL Bean bag to pack – this XL size is amazing. I got it a few months ago and it’s perfect for weekend trips or when you just need to carry a ton of stuff. I plan on packing everything in packing cubes as well to keep organized. I shared a full review of the bag last week and you can read it here! I’m also going to be bringing this bag from Land’s End for more purse-type essentials like my wallet and glasses. Between those two I’ll have lots of space.
For myself I’m going to bring…
- Snacks and drinks – Protein drinks and Gatorade for during labor and after. I think having some liquid hydration and energy helps a ton for a long day! I also am going to bring some snacks for after delivery because we won’t be having visitors. Oh and I am not going to forget my Hydroflask!
- Basic basic basic toiletries – my skincare routine (it always makes me feel better!), toothbrush, hairbrush, deodorant. I’m also going to bring my face roller and mask for some relaxation if I am so inclined. For makeup I will bring concealer, blush and maybe mascara. I probably won’t use it (I didn’t last time), but who knows. Sometimes it feels nice to put makeup on!
- Electronics – iPad, charger, Instax camera, Instax film, nightlight (hospital overheads are brutal in the middle of the night). I also need to track down our portable sound machine to drone out some of the hospital noise.
- Clothes– I will also bring a comfy nightgown or two to change into after labor. I’m also packing some nursing bras and tanks. To wear home I’m planning on wearing these joggers (I wear them with the band rolled down to accommodate the bump now), this tank, and this Target sweater. And I might bring a headband for cuteness 🙂
For baby I’m bringing…
- Ollie Swaddle
- Super cozy blanket
- Going home newborn outfit from Lou Lou and Company. They are SO soft! They’re also super stretchy and should work for any sized newborn.
A lot of people suggest you bring postpartum essentials but the hospital will provide you with underwear, etc, that you can use. I found it much easier to use what they provided than what I had brought. I think that’s the one area that’s easy to overpack – they really will provide everything you need for your own recovery! I have items I can use at home but while we’re there I will use what they provide.
So there you have it – my simple list. I’ve actually got this printed out in list form so that I can remember what I need if we are in a rush. Some things I’m not using (swaddle, newborn clothes, etc) are already packed. But items like the iPad get used every day so those aren’t packed yet. Last time I had 24 hours notice before my induction so it was easy to pack and double check. But you never know!
I’ll be sure to update you guys later if I regretted bringing anything or if there’s something major I forgot. Fingers crossed I’ve got it all!
